Unlike other Gulf programs, Bahrain’s visa does not require employer sponsorship, company visa, or property ownership. This is a golden opportunity for visa holders as they can work wherever, whenever, and as whatever they want — such as freelancer, or run a business. Not to mention that there is no minimum stay requirement, meaning you can stay out of Bahrain without losing residency.

Applicant must fit into one out of four categories:

• Skilled professionals: Applicants must earn ≥ BHD 2,000/month (~USD 5,300) and must be living in Bahrain for 5 years or more.
• Property owners: Applicant must hold BHD 200,000 at least (~USD 530,000) worth of real estate.
• Retirees: Receiving monthly pension ≥ BHD 2,000 (residents) or ≥ BHD 4,000 (non-residents).
• Exceptional talent: Experts recognized by the Bahraini authorities in science, arts, tech, sports, or business.

Application Process
The application is fully digital and straightforward:

1.     Check eligibility via official residency portal.

2.     Gather the required documents: passport, insurance, income statements, medical clearance, and category-specific proof.

3.     On the government service platform, create an eKey account.

4.     Submit the application online for BHD 5 (~USD 13).

5.     Within 5–10 business days, applicants will receive a decision, and the time depends on the categories.

6.     Pay the final fee of BHD 300 (~USD 795); after that, a 10-year visa is issued.

7.     Optionally apply for a work permit from April 2025 onward.

Residency holders may sponsor spouses, children, and parents under the same visa — no additional proof of sponsorship required.

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You can work wherever or run your own business without the need for a sponsor. Travelling is easy as there is no required minimum stay. It is highly cost-effective, as total processing ranges from USD 13 to USD 795 for 10 years. Moreover, it is family-friendly — inclusive of spouse, children, and parents.

This initiative supports Bahrain’s Vision 2030 goals — attracting foreign talent, investment, and retirees to diversify the economy. Bahrain, with its affordable long-term visa, is heading to become the most freedom-rich, flexible, and easy-to-go city full of quality of life for immigrants in the Gulf.

Traditional Gulf hurdles are scared of Bahrain s Golden Residency Visa as it offers a visa to residents who have no job, no sponsor, and no property investment required.